5 months ago
November 28, 2023

How Do You Know If You Didn’t Get The Job After An Interview?

The goal of any sales job interview is to get a job. But sometimes it’s not easy to tell one way or the other. As sales recruiters with years of…

sales recruiter Liz Vixner
Elizabeth Vixner

The goal of any sales job interview is to get a job. But sometimes it’s not easy to tell one way or the other. As sales recruiters with years of experience, we know that no two companies operate the same. So, it’s challenging to know if you are still in the running. Below, our sales recruiters have put together a list of 10 signs that you probably didn’t get the job. Then we outline some factors that can affect how long it takes for a company to get back to you after the interview process.

10 Signs That You Didn’t Get The Job After An Interview

  • No Follow-Up Communication: The company doesn’t contact you after the expected follow-up date.
  • Short or Generic Feedback: If you receive a brief or generic rejection email or call.
  • The Position Reopens: You notice the same job vacancy posted again on the company’s website or job boards.
  • No Invitation for Next Steps: They don’t invite you for a second interview or any additional assessments.
  • Lack of Enthusiasm: You sensed a lack of enthusiasm or interest from the interviewers during the discussion.
  • It was a Quick Interview: The interview was significantly shorter than anticipated, indicating they may have made a quick decision.
  • There’s a Change in Requirements: If the company changes the job requirements or description after your interview.
  • No Reference Checks: They didn’t request your references or conduct background checks.
  • There’s a Hiring Freeze or Delay: The company announces a hiring freeze or delays in the hiring process.
  • Feedback Indicates a Poor Fit: If you receive feedback suggesting that you weren’t the right fit for the role or company culture.

While these signs may indicate you didn’t get the job, it’s important to remain professional and continue your job search actively.

How Long Does It Take After An Interview To Know If You Got The Job?

From a recruiter’s perspective, the timeframe for determining if a sales candidate gets the job can vary depending on the company’s specific hiring process and other factors. Here are some considerations:

  • Company Process: Some companies have a well-defined and efficient hiring process that allows them to make decisions relatively quickly, often within a few days to a couple of weeks.
  • Interview Rounds: The number of interview rounds and the availability of interviewers can impact the timeline. If there are multiple rounds, it might take longer to coordinate and assess all candidates.
  • Volume of Applicants: If there are a large number of applicants for the position, it may take more time to review and evaluate all candidates.
  • Company Policies: Some companies have policies or procedures that require decisions to go through multiple layers of approval, which can slow down the process.
  • Other Obligations: Recruiters and hiring managers may have other responsibilities and obligations that impact their ability to make a swift decision.
  • Negotiations: If there are negotiations on salary, benefits, or other terms, this can add time to the process.

In general, sales candidates are often informed of the hiring decision within a few weeks after the final interview. However, it’s not unusual for the process to take longer, and it’s not always an indicator of success or failure. Communication from the company regarding the timeline can provide clarity and manage expectations for the candidate.

More Job Interview Advice From our Sales Recruiters

6 Sales Phrases that are Interview Killers

Top 4 Things Sales Candidates Should STOP Saying If They Want To Get Hired

How To Respond To Interview Questions You Don’t Know The Answer To

sales recruiter Liz Vixner

Elizabeth Vixner

Elizabeth is a sales recruiter that has led and developed multiple top sales teams in Canada in the Automotive, Retail, and Sports Industries. With 6+ years of corporate sales experience, she knows what separates a good salesperson from a great salesperson. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a Specialization in Marketing and Accounting with Honours from the Schulich School of Business at York University.

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